Boning in simple steps

find out more

Add boning to a bodice for extra structure and support

Staystitching the bodice

First, staystitch the centre front bodice piece to prevent it stretching as you work, then make up the bodice and press the seams to one side. Neaten the seam allowances. Attach halterneck straps to the bodice front. Make up the lining in the same way.
Making casings

To form the casings for the boning in the lining, stitch seam allowances together 1.3cm away from the seams. Cut strips of boning to the length of the stitched casing, excluding seam allowances at the top and bottom. Insert, then try it on.
Adding the boning

Cut oﬀ 6mm from either end, rounding the ends or adding end caps. Reinsert into the casings. Tack 1.5cm from the upper and
lower edges, taking care not to catch the boning. Continue making up the dress as instructed in the pattern envelope.

More Helpful Tips...

Give extra shape to frocks and tops with this handy sleeve enhancement. You can easily add interest to the head of the sleeve, and how it travels over the top of the arm, simply by using tucks, gathers, pleats and darts. Each of these will require a sligh

Improve Your Rolled Hems

Guarantee flowing hemlines that hang like a dream. Keen dressmaker Sarah Greeff has colourful memories of her first attempts at making a rolled hem. “I was first asked to make rolled hems for a colleague at Fenwick of Bond Street"

Perfect Your Piping

Know Your Overlocking

Get to grips with the best overlocking finishes for everyday stitching. The overlocker has a different feel to a regular sewing machine. The trick is to let the feed dog guide the fabric. Use your right hand to support the edge of the material, taking car

Master French Seams

Get to grips with a clever seam favourite for a continental finish! French seams are common in clothes for children, where the skin is extra sensitive, as the inside is completely smooth.

Fix a Frayed Pocket

A quick fashion fix with Amanda Bowden's classic miracle mend. The dread of torn stitching can be traumatic. Pockets are a common site of injury for catching on things, to say nothing of natural wear and tear as hands go in and out, and even the continued